Job Description Summary & Additional Information
About UMCES:
The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) is a premier research institution dedicated to advancing scientific understanding of the environment and applying that knowledge to address pressing environmental challenges. With a mission to conduct world-class research, educate future environmental leaders, and provide unbiased scientific information to inform public policy, the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) plays a vital role in protecting and restoring our natural resources. UMCES researchers work across a wide range of disciplines, from ecology and oceanography to environmental economics and social science, to understand complex environmental challenges facing Maryland, the nation, and the world.
Position Summary:
UMCES is seeking a dynamic and highly motivated Digital Content and Communications Coordinator to join our marketing and communications team. This role will be instrumental in communicating our groundbreaking environmental research and initiatives. The Coordinator will be responsible for developing, implementing, and managing content across various platforms, including our website, social media channels, email, and earned media. The ideal candidate will possess strong editorial judgment, writing, editing, and multimedia skills, as well as a keen eye for detail.
Responsibilities:
Social Media Management: (35%)
- Develop and implement social media strategies to increase UMCES's reach, engagement, and brand awareness across platforms (e.g., BlueSky, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube).
- Create engaging and visually appealing content, including graphics, short videos, and infographics, tailored to each platform.
- Schedule and publish social media posts, monitor conversations, and respond to comments and messages in a timely and professional manner.
- Stay informed about emerging social media trends and best practices.
- Track and analyze social media performance metrics to optimize strategies.
Website Content Creation and Storytelling: (25%)
- Proactively identify compelling stories about UMCES research, faculty, staff, and students.
- Collaborate with students, staff, and faculty to translate complex scientific information into accessible and engaging web content (narrative storytelling, evergreen content, updates) for various audiences, ensuring adherence to brand guidelines and SEO best practices.
- Assist in the acquisition or production of multimedia content, including photography and videography, to support digital communication efforts.
- Utilize content management systems (e.g., WordPress) to publish and organize web content.
- Monitor website analytics to identify trends and inform content optimization strategies.
Earned Media (20%)
- Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with journalists, editors, and producers specializing in environmental science, higher education, and related fields.
- Write and distribute press releases, media advisories, and public service announcements.
- Develop media kits, fact sheets, and other resources for journalists.
- Monitor media coverage of UMCES and relevant environmental topics, providing regular reports and insights.
Email Marketing and Communications: (10%)
- Assist in the development and execution of email marketing campaigns, including newsletters, event invitations, and targeted announcements.
- Write and edit engaging email copy, ensuring clear calls to action.
- Analyze email campaign performance and provide recommendations for improvements.
Communications Support: (10%)
- Support the broader DevComm team with various tasks,
- Contribute to the development of communications plans and strategies.
- Contribute to efforts to build UMCES communications and marketing infrastructure.
- Proofread and edit communications materials for accuracy, clarity, and consistency.
- Other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, journalism, environmental science, or a related field.
- 1-3 years of professional experience in digital content creation, social media management, or communications.
- 1-3 years of professional experience in media relations or journalism
- Proven experience managing and updating websites using a content management system (CMS), preferably WordPress.
- Demonstrated experience managing professional social media accounts on behalf of an organization (e.g., BlueSky, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn)
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex scientific information into clear, concise, and engaging language for general audiences.
- Strong editorial skills and attention to detail.
- Basic graphic design skills using tools like Adobe Creative Suite (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator) or Canva.
- Familiarity with email marketing platforms.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Preferred Competencies of Competitive Applicants:
- Experience creating content that contributes to departmental or organizational goals and priorities.
- A working knowledge of Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.2
- Basic photo and video editing skills.
- A working knowledge of environmental issues and scientific terminology.
Required Application Materials:
- A cover letter (addressed to UMCES) sharing your interest in this position
- Resume/CV detailing your relevant experience.
- Portfolio or links to examples of your content production (e.g., website content, social media campaigns, email newsletters, press releases, or other writing samples). Please include a brief description of how each sample contributed to the organization's or department's strategy and goals.
- Contact information of three professional references.
Best Consideration Date: December 1, 2025
Posting Close Date: 12/02/2025
Open Until Filled: no
Minimum Qualifications
Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
Experience: One (1) year of professional administrative or coordinator experience.
Other: Additional work experience as defined above may be substituted on a year for year basis for up to four (4) years of the required education.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:
Knowledge of best practices in organization, administration, and customer service.
Knowledge of proper protocol in dealing with confidential information.
Skill in oral and written communication.
Skill in the use of Microsoft Office and Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Forms, etc.)
Ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, regulations, and laws.
Ability to multitask while demonstrating a commitment to customer service.
Department
UMCES-Center Administration
Worker Sub-Type
Staff Contractual (C2) (Fixed Term)
Salary Range
$70,000 to $90,000
EEO Statement
The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science is an equal opportunity employer. The Center’s policies, programs, and activities are in conformance with pertinent Federal and State laws and regulations on nondiscrimination regarding race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, and disability. Inquiries regarding compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; or related legal requirements should be directed to the Assistant Vice President of Human Resources, Center Administration, 2020 Horns Point Rd, Cambridge, MD 21613.
